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Project manager (interactive media) -

The PM manages everything from the project team and their work schedules, to budget and project delivery, as well as guaranteeing that work is completed on time and within the budget.

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Ghost writer -

Sometimes, artists need fresh eyes and inspiration, so they hire a ghost writer who writes for various artists without actually receiving public credit.

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Music producer - Similar to the captain of a ship, the music producer oversees the entire recording process from start to finish. They guide the creative direction and work closely with the artist to execute their vision.

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A&R representative (artist and repertoire) - The A&R rep is in charge of discovering and nurturing talent. They work closely with artists to develop their musical style, and even connect them with songwriters and other industry professionals.

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Studio engineer - Accurately capturing the great rhythms and beautiful voices of music artists, the studio engineer is the one who operates the recording equipment. They also set up microphones and ensure optimal sound quality.

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Assistant engineer -

There to support the lead engineer, the assistant helps with setting up equipment, troubleshooting technical issues, and organizing session files. They play a key role in ensuring smooth studio operations.

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Session musicians - The impactful sounds you experience are accomplished by the talented instrumentalists hired to play specific parts on the recording.

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Programmer -

Adding layers of atmosphere and texture to a track is where the programmer shines. Synthesizers and samplers are looped in to create electronic sounds and beats that complement the music.

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Vocal coach -

A vocal coach helps singers refine their technique and performance, providing guidance on breathing, tone, pitch, and expression.

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Artist manager - The manager is the artist's go-to person. Whether it’s negotiations with record labels, bookings, or other strategic decisions, the manager plays a pivotal role in advancing the artist's career.

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Booking agent - Well-planned and profitable live performances are a booking agent’s bread and butter! From deals with venues and promoters, to coordinating tour schedules, the booking agent stays busy.

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Lawyer - The lawyer handles legal contracts and protects the artist's rights, while also advising on copyright issues, licensing, and contractual agreements. They are there with the artist’s success and legal best interest in mind.

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Business manager -

This is the person who oversees the artist's finances and investments, ensuring financial stability and growth. They handle budgeting and financial planning to optimize the artist's income and assets.

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Photographer -

There to capture album artwork and promotional photos, the photographer helps shape the artist's visual identity and brand as their main responsibility.

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Videographer -

Creating music videos to visually represent the music, the videographer conveys the artist's vision. All aspects of the video production are handled, from concept development to filming and editing.

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Graphic designer - The graphic designer is a creative wiz who masterfully uses typography, imagery, and layouts to visually capture the essence of the music while ensuring it resonates with the audience.

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Stylist -

The world cares what an artist looks like, which brands they’re wearing, and everything grooming related. Assisting with the artist's wardrobe and visual image, the stylist helps create a compelling, cohesive, and elevated look.

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Publicist -

The publicist’s role is to generate media attention and manage the artist's public image. They also pitch stories to journalists, coordinate press interviews, and ensure positive news coverage and perception.

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Mixing engineer -

Balancing the individual beats and other parts of a song to create a polished sound and cohesive vibe, the mixing engineer is responsible for blending vocals, instruments, and effects to achieve optimal clarity.

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Tour manager - The tour manager is in charge of coordinating all logistical aspects of a tour, including travel, accommodations, and scheduling.

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Mastering engineer -

When the track is almost ready, this engineer optimizes the audio quality for distribution across various formats and platforms, and ensures consistency in everything from volume to tone.

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Stage manager -

On tour, the musician is focused on providing world-class performances for screaming fans. To help make this a reality, stage managers oversee the onstage setup and ensure a smooth performance flow.

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Sound engineer (live) -

By mixing the sound for the live performances, the sound engineer ensures clarity and balance for the audience. They adjust levels, effects, EQ, and much more in real time to enhance the live sound experience.

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Lighting director -

The lighting director enhances the visual experience and atmosphere of the performance by designing and executing dynamic lighting effects, cues, and color schemes to complement the music and engage the audience.

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Backline technician -

The backline technician ensures that everything is in working order and ready for the show, including instrument changes, repairs, and technical issues that keep a performance running smoothly.

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Social media manager -

Social media managers create engaging content, monitor countless analytics, and interact with followers to cultivate a strong and active online community.

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Security -

Physical security is always important to musicians. Security is there to ensure the safety of the artist and crew during travel and performances, to handle crowd control, and to respond to any emergencies.

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Motion control operator -

The motion control operator is a technician whose job it is is to manage the motion control rig (a robot camera). This ensures that quality footage is captured and that the musician is looking their best from a film perspective.

Sources: (Musicians Institute: College of Contemporary Music) (Natricia Bernard) (Careers in Music) (Exploration Group) (MusicDigi)

See also: Rare behind-the-scenes photos of music legends

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